Why Perk, Myers believe Warriors are ‘legitimate’ title contenders was originally published on NBC Sports Bay Area
Kendrick Perkins believes the Warriors can contend for an NBA title this season.
The 14-year NBA veteran turned ESPN pundit praised Golden State on Friday’s edition of “NBA Countdown.”
“Warriors.” [have] appeared in the West as Kendrick Lamar’s new album,” Perkins said. “When it comes to what they were doing.” I’ve been following this team since the preseason and they have a certain type of look. They have a certain kind of synergy about them. They defend at a high level, with Draymond Green anchoring that defense. They are #1 in perimeter defense.
“I believe the Warriors are legitimate title contenders, but I need to know Bob [Myers]do you believe they are legit?”
Bob Myers, former Golden State general manager and architect of the Warriors dynasty, echoed Perkins in declaring the NBA team’s championship potential.
“I think they win it every year, Perk,” Myers, now an ESPN analyst, joked. “I didn’t.” [think so] going into the season. They certainly looked that way, why not? Here’s why I’d say why not. I’m surprised the West didn’t look as strong as it did. I remember when I was there in 2022 I was talking to Mike Dunleavy and he said, ‘This is our chance because there is no dominant team.’
“We can talk about the team that I mentioned as my favorite in the finals in the West [the] Oklahoma City [Thunder]. I still think they will be hard to get past, but they are the only team. That’s the only hurdle I see for the Warriors right now.”
After going 11-3 on Friday, Golden State has been one of the surprises at the start of the NBA season. Between vintage Steph Curry and a deep bench that can score at will, the Warriors appear to be contenders in the Western Conference once again.
The additions of Buddy Hield, Kyle Anderson and Linda Waters III, along with the development of some younger players, have given Steve Kerr one of the most versatile groups he has coached.
With most Western Conference contenders struggling to start the season, the Warriors have taken full advantage and are currently tied for the No. 1 seed.
If this trend continues the rest of the season, Myers and Perkins won’t be surprised if Golden State makes another NBA Finals run.
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